The tips from Wednesday’s post certainly apply to any age of dog. I read the following article on the Whole Dog Journal website which applies specifically to the adult shelter dog:
http://www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/15_01/features/Adopting-Grown-Up-Dogs_20438-1.html
I hope you enjoy it.
Rescue Mommy
Friday, December 30, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Tips for Life with Your New Friend - Updated
Congratulations if you adopted a new friend this Christmas. You’ll want to make it a success, so I have compiled a list of tips for you:
Your dog should be a party animal. The first 16 weeks of a dog’s life are critical for socializing with other pets and humans. Talk with your vet about socializing with other dogs because your new puppy has not completed his or her vaccinations. Also, make sure the other dog is both vaccinated and properly socialized. You would not want your buddy to have a negative first experience with other dogs.
Why is this time so critical? I have read that the first 16 weeks are the period in which your dog develops his/her views about the world. If the experiences are positive, you are less likely to have problems later.
Exercise, exercise, exercise. If you think you can toss the dog into the backyard “to do his business” and that will be enough, you are wrong. All dogs need exercise. How much exercise your dog needs depends upon the breed. That’s why it is so important to know how much work you are willing to do BEFORE you pick the dog.
Dogs that do not get enough exercise can be destructive. They can “act out” because they are trying to get your attention and relieve energy. We all need to exercise more so grab the leash and take your buddy for a walk. Walking/running with Gracie is lots more fun than a “traditional” workout.
Establish a routine. All pets appreciate a routine. We walk at X time, we eat at X time, et cetera. I have found that my pets are less anxious if we keep a routine.
In my opinion, it was especially important to Gracie in the early days. She is definitely an anxious dog. I am not sure what happened in her previous life. A routine laid the groundwork for establishing a safe, secure environment where she could relax and learn to trust us.
Engage the dog’s mind. A bored dog can be a destructive dog. Exercise helps, but your dog also needs something to do while you are away. The good news is lots of interactive toys are available now. For example, puzzles in which you can hide treats can provide mental stimulation. You can also try hiding toys and treats around the house. (See Friday’s post for a brand of toy I found that stands up to abuse.)
Train patiently and gradually. It is not about having a dog who can do cute party tricks. Every dog needs to know basic commands that you will use every day for walkies, grooming, et cetera.
Some dogs learn quicker than others, so be patient. Start slow, one command at a time, so he or she can have a chance at success. NEVER use choke collars, dominance, or punishment.
Treats are the best training tool; who doesn’t love a goodie? And, by all means, seek professional help if you are inexperienced or feel as if you are in over your head.
If you have a new puppy, look for obedience classes tailored for puppies. In addition to learning basic obedience all good puppies need, your new friend can socialize with other puppies, and you can meet new people too.
Read older posts, and you will see that our life with our furry friends is an adventure and a never-ending learning process. Good luck to all who have new, furry friends in their families!
Rescue Mommy
Your dog should be a party animal. The first 16 weeks of a dog’s life are critical for socializing with other pets and humans. Talk with your vet about socializing with other dogs because your new puppy has not completed his or her vaccinations. Also, make sure the other dog is both vaccinated and properly socialized. You would not want your buddy to have a negative first experience with other dogs.
Why is this time so critical? I have read that the first 16 weeks are the period in which your dog develops his/her views about the world. If the experiences are positive, you are less likely to have problems later.
Exercise, exercise, exercise. If you think you can toss the dog into the backyard “to do his business” and that will be enough, you are wrong. All dogs need exercise. How much exercise your dog needs depends upon the breed. That’s why it is so important to know how much work you are willing to do BEFORE you pick the dog.
Dogs that do not get enough exercise can be destructive. They can “act out” because they are trying to get your attention and relieve energy. We all need to exercise more so grab the leash and take your buddy for a walk. Walking/running with Gracie is lots more fun than a “traditional” workout.
Establish a routine. All pets appreciate a routine. We walk at X time, we eat at X time, et cetera. I have found that my pets are less anxious if we keep a routine.
In my opinion, it was especially important to Gracie in the early days. She is definitely an anxious dog. I am not sure what happened in her previous life. A routine laid the groundwork for establishing a safe, secure environment where she could relax and learn to trust us.
Engage the dog’s mind. A bored dog can be a destructive dog. Exercise helps, but your dog also needs something to do while you are away. The good news is lots of interactive toys are available now. For example, puzzles in which you can hide treats can provide mental stimulation. You can also try hiding toys and treats around the house. (See Friday’s post for a brand of toy I found that stands up to abuse.)
Train patiently and gradually. It is not about having a dog who can do cute party tricks. Every dog needs to know basic commands that you will use every day for walkies, grooming, et cetera.
Some dogs learn quicker than others, so be patient. Start slow, one command at a time, so he or she can have a chance at success. NEVER use choke collars, dominance, or punishment.
Treats are the best training tool; who doesn’t love a goodie? And, by all means, seek professional help if you are inexperienced or feel as if you are in over your head.
If you have a new puppy, look for obedience classes tailored for puppies. In addition to learning basic obedience all good puppies need, your new friend can socialize with other puppies, and you can meet new people too.
Read older posts, and you will see that our life with our furry friends is an adventure and a never-ending learning process. Good luck to all who have new, furry friends in their families!
Rescue Mommy
Friday, December 23, 2011
People Food Hazards
Christmas is this weekend. We all know that chocolate is highly toxic to pets. Did you know that these foods are toxic too?
Coffee
Caffeine
Alcohol
Avocado
Macadamia Nuts
Grapes and Raisins
Yeast Dough
Raw/Undercooked Meat, Eggs, and Bones
Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
Onions, Garlic, Chives
Milk
Salt
*Source: ASPCA website
If your pet eats any of these or other toxic items, call your vet immediately. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. They charge a consulting fee for the call, though.
Stay calm. Be sure to note what and how much your pet has consumed. If you are not sure what it is, grab whatever is left and take it with you when you head to the vet’s office.
Rescue Mommy
Coffee
Caffeine
Alcohol
Avocado
Macadamia Nuts
Grapes and Raisins
Yeast Dough
Raw/Undercooked Meat, Eggs, and Bones
Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
Onions, Garlic, Chives
Milk
Salt
*Source: ASPCA website
If your pet eats any of these or other toxic items, call your vet immediately. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. They charge a consulting fee for the call, though.
Stay calm. Be sure to note what and how much your pet has consumed. If you are not sure what it is, grab whatever is left and take it with you when you head to the vet’s office.
Rescue Mommy
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Take a Moment for the Pets
I am keeping all the blog posts short and sweet this week. We are all really busy right now.
Today, I would like you to take a moment and consider your plans for your pets. If you will have family over, consider what you will do with your pets. This is particularly important when you have overnight guests. There is nothing wrong with placing your buddies in a room all to themselves. The holidays are stressful for us humans, so they probably feel it too.
If you are travelling, hopefully, you have arranged for a pet sitter or plan to board your pet. I like to pack the bags early if I am taking Gracie with me. (I did the same when I boarded my other pets.) That way, I have plenty of time to double and triple check I packed everything. That’s just my little craziness, though.
Breathe deeply. We will get through it.
Rescue Mommy
Today, I would like you to take a moment and consider your plans for your pets. If you will have family over, consider what you will do with your pets. This is particularly important when you have overnight guests. There is nothing wrong with placing your buddies in a room all to themselves. The holidays are stressful for us humans, so they probably feel it too.
If you are travelling, hopefully, you have arranged for a pet sitter or plan to board your pet. I like to pack the bags early if I am taking Gracie with me. (I did the same when I boarded my other pets.) That way, I have plenty of time to double and triple check I packed everything. That’s just my little craziness, though.
Breathe deeply. We will get through it.
Rescue Mommy
Monday, December 19, 2011
Mind the Christmas Tree
Take a deep breath. The Christmas madness is about to reach its high.
In all the rush, let’s not forget our pets. The Christmas tree often becomes a big toy to the pets. We all know about the risks of some decorations. I heard about a new risk recently.
Keep an eye on the water if you are using a fresh tree. A coworker’s dog loves to drink the water from the tree stand. Some people add chemicals to the water to preserve the tree. If you do this, beware your dog drinking the water. I am not sure if these chemicals are pet safe.
Just one more thing to worry about during the holidays!
Rescue Mommy
In all the rush, let’s not forget our pets. The Christmas tree often becomes a big toy to the pets. We all know about the risks of some decorations. I heard about a new risk recently.
Keep an eye on the water if you are using a fresh tree. A coworker’s dog loves to drink the water from the tree stand. Some people add chemicals to the water to preserve the tree. If you do this, beware your dog drinking the water. I am not sure if these chemicals are pet safe.
Just one more thing to worry about during the holidays!
Rescue Mommy
Friday, December 16, 2011
Tuffy Dog Toys
In Wednesday's post, I mentioned that it is always nice to leave toys for your pet when you are away. You do not want to leave something he or she could destroy, particularly if the toy contains a potentially harmful squeaker. While no toy is indestructible, I found that these toys are pretty darn tough.
Available at PetSmart and independent pet stores
Check out the company’s website, mydogtoy.com
I found these toys over two years ago when I was looking for a toy I could leave with Dino. He would shred traditional stuffed toys, so I did not feel comfortable leaving him alone with that type. I bought him a big red lizard by Tuffy. He did not like it. He preferred soft stuffed toys.
Gracie, on the other hand, loves this line of dog toys. The toys are a bit firmer than a stuffed toy. The tag on the toys states the toys are built with three layers of material and five rows of stitching. Gracie still plays with the red lizard and several other Tuffy toys I bought. Her favorite is a red ring (see picture) that can be used for tugging or tossing.
The toys even survived the puppy who visited us recently. The edge of the toys was only slightly frayed in spots after a week of gnawing. On a long-term basis, they might not survive as long as they will with an adult dog. (Of course, no dog toy lasts forever.)
The company makes various styles. They have a “tuff-scale” for each toy. The scale indicates how durable the toy will be based upon your dog’s chewing habits. You can then select an appropriate toy from their line.
The toys are a little more expensive than other toys. The toys have been very durable for me, though, so they are worth the extra expense.
Rescue Mommy
P.S. I found a similar model at Petsmart. It is slightly less expensive and seems to be just as good as the Tuffy toys.
Available at PetSmart and independent pet stores
Check out the company’s website, mydogtoy.com
I found these toys over two years ago when I was looking for a toy I could leave with Dino. He would shred traditional stuffed toys, so I did not feel comfortable leaving him alone with that type. I bought him a big red lizard by Tuffy. He did not like it. He preferred soft stuffed toys.
Gracie, on the other hand, loves this line of dog toys. The toys are a bit firmer than a stuffed toy. The tag on the toys states the toys are built with three layers of material and five rows of stitching. Gracie still plays with the red lizard and several other Tuffy toys I bought. Her favorite is a red ring (see picture) that can be used for tugging or tossing.
The company makes various styles. They have a “tuff-scale” for each toy. The scale indicates how durable the toy will be based upon your dog’s chewing habits. You can then select an appropriate toy from their line.
The toys are a little more expensive than other toys. The toys have been very durable for me, though, so they are worth the extra expense.
Rescue Mommy
P.S. I found a similar model at Petsmart. It is slightly less expensive and seems to be just as good as the Tuffy toys.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Tips for Life with Your New Dog Friend
While at a party last week, someone asked me for tips. The family found a dog at Brother Wolf and was doing a trial adoption. The candidate, a Beagle mix, was a lot livelier than previous family pets. Since I have a Jack Russell mix, maybe I could offer some suggestions?
I have been asked this question on other occasions so I thought I would put together a list:
Exercise, exercise, exercise. If you think you can toss the dog into the backyard “to do his business” and that will be enough, you are wrong. All dogs need exercise. How much exercise your dog needs depends upon the breed. That’s why it is so important to know how much work you are willing to do BEFORE you pick the dog.
Dogs that do not get enough exercise can be destructive. They can “act out” because they are trying to get your attention and relieve energy. We all need to exercise more so grab the leash and take your buddy for a walk. Walking/running with Gracie is lots more fun than a “traditional” workout.
Establish a routine. All pets appreciate a routine. We walk at X time, we eat at X time, et cetera. I have found that my pets are less anxious if we keep a routine.
In my opinion, it was especially important to Gracie in the early days. She is definitely an anxious dog. I am not sure what happened in her previous life. A routine laid the groundwork for establishing a safe, secure environment where she could relax and learn to trust us.
Engage the dog’s mind. A bored dog can be a destructive dog. Exercise helps, but your dog also needs something to do while you are away. The good news is lots of interactive toys are available now. For example, puzzles in which you can hide treats can provide mental stimulation. You can also try hiding toys and treats around the house. (See Friday’s post for a brand of toy I found that stands up to abuse.)
Train patiently and gradually. It is not about having a dog who can do cute party tricks. Every dog needs to know basic commands that you will use every day for walkies, grooming, et cetera.
Some dogs learn quicker than others, so be patient. Start slow, one command at a time, so he or she can have a chance at success. NEVER use choke collars, dominance, or punishment.
Treats are the best training tool; who doesn’t love a goodie? And, by all means, seek professional help if you are inexperienced or feel as if you are in over your head.
Read older posts, and you will see that our life with our furry friends is an adventure and a never-ending learning process. Good luck to all who have new, furry friends in their families!
Rescue Mommy
I have been asked this question on other occasions so I thought I would put together a list:
Exercise, exercise, exercise. If you think you can toss the dog into the backyard “to do his business” and that will be enough, you are wrong. All dogs need exercise. How much exercise your dog needs depends upon the breed. That’s why it is so important to know how much work you are willing to do BEFORE you pick the dog.
Dogs that do not get enough exercise can be destructive. They can “act out” because they are trying to get your attention and relieve energy. We all need to exercise more so grab the leash and take your buddy for a walk. Walking/running with Gracie is lots more fun than a “traditional” workout.
Establish a routine. All pets appreciate a routine. We walk at X time, we eat at X time, et cetera. I have found that my pets are less anxious if we keep a routine.
In my opinion, it was especially important to Gracie in the early days. She is definitely an anxious dog. I am not sure what happened in her previous life. A routine laid the groundwork for establishing a safe, secure environment where she could relax and learn to trust us.
Engage the dog’s mind. A bored dog can be a destructive dog. Exercise helps, but your dog also needs something to do while you are away. The good news is lots of interactive toys are available now. For example, puzzles in which you can hide treats can provide mental stimulation. You can also try hiding toys and treats around the house. (See Friday’s post for a brand of toy I found that stands up to abuse.)
Train patiently and gradually. It is not about having a dog who can do cute party tricks. Every dog needs to know basic commands that you will use every day for walkies, grooming, et cetera.
Some dogs learn quicker than others, so be patient. Start slow, one command at a time, so he or she can have a chance at success. NEVER use choke collars, dominance, or punishment.
Treats are the best training tool; who doesn’t love a goodie? And, by all means, seek professional help if you are inexperienced or feel as if you are in over your head.
Read older posts, and you will see that our life with our furry friends is an adventure and a never-ending learning process. Good luck to all who have new, furry friends in their families!
Rescue Mommy
Monday, December 12, 2011
Iams Proactive Health Smart Puppy Food Recall
Here we go again! Procter and Gamble has recalled Iams Proactive Health Smart Puppy food. Here is the link to the recall alert:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm282506.htm
Rescue Mommy
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm282506.htm
Rescue Mommy
Friday, December 9, 2011
Giving a Pet as a Gift
My sister and her husband have five kids, ages 6 months to 9 years old. They lost their sweet, wonderful dog in the 2007 pet food poisoning debacle. While they had indicated they might get a dog in the future, they had not made any plans. Then, about a year or so ago, my sister’s in laws gave them a puppy. After all, kids need a dog, right?
They tried their best to keep the dog. Unfortunately, the demands of a large, young family did not leave enough time to offer the dog the life he deserved. A few weeks ago, they found a great home for the dog. The family has older girls, one of whom is very attached to him. (He now sleeps on her bed.) The family also has a Labrador Retriever so he has a happy playmate. In short, he is in heaven.
This story ended well. Thousands of stories like this do not. Walk in any shelter six months after Christmas, and I am sure you will find several dogs that were Christmas gifts. The reality of pet ownership is different from the fuzzy fairy tale.
I strongly advise against giving someone a pet as a present. It is a huge responsibility. I have a suggestion, though, if you think someone might be interested in adopting or you really, really cannot resist.
Go to your local pet store. Buy supplies for the pet you want to give – toys, bowls, blankets, et cetera. Put all of these things in a basket. Make a coupon that says you will cover the adoption fee after Christmas (or other applicable holiday/birthday) when the person is ready. Then, after the madness of the holidays and when the time is right, the person can find the love of his/her life.
Rescue Mommy
P.S. Before you ask, unfortunately, I could not take the dog. Gracie hated him. She could not stand his high energy and in-your-face playfulness. It all worked out well in the end.
They tried their best to keep the dog. Unfortunately, the demands of a large, young family did not leave enough time to offer the dog the life he deserved. A few weeks ago, they found a great home for the dog. The family has older girls, one of whom is very attached to him. (He now sleeps on her bed.) The family also has a Labrador Retriever so he has a happy playmate. In short, he is in heaven.
This story ended well. Thousands of stories like this do not. Walk in any shelter six months after Christmas, and I am sure you will find several dogs that were Christmas gifts. The reality of pet ownership is different from the fuzzy fairy tale.
I strongly advise against giving someone a pet as a present. It is a huge responsibility. I have a suggestion, though, if you think someone might be interested in adopting or you really, really cannot resist.
Go to your local pet store. Buy supplies for the pet you want to give – toys, bowls, blankets, et cetera. Put all of these things in a basket. Make a coupon that says you will cover the adoption fee after Christmas (or other applicable holiday/birthday) when the person is ready. Then, after the madness of the holidays and when the time is right, the person can find the love of his/her life.
Rescue Mommy
P.S. Before you ask, unfortunately, I could not take the dog. Gracie hated him. She could not stand his high energy and in-your-face playfulness. It all worked out well in the end.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Honesty is the Best Policy
On Saturday, we visited a couple of rescue groups. Even though Gracie may not want another buddy, exposing her to other dogs is always a good thing. It occurred to me while I was speaking with one of the representatives how important absolute honesty is to the process.
If you are thinking about getting a new pet or adding another one to your family, you have a lot of things to consider. Here are a few things we always consider:
1. What is your lifestyle? If you are a couch potato, do not adopt a high energy dog. If you are the active type, you have plenty of like-minded breeds to consider.
2. How much time can you devote to your new pet? Dogs require walks outside to do their business, whereas cats can use a litter box. They want to hang out with you and play with toys; in my opinion, they want more interaction than most cats. A cat will approach you when he or she wants attention.
Tip if you are considering a dog: Set your alarm 30 minutes early and go for a walk each morning. Come straight home work and take a 30-minute walk. Do this for two weeks. If you can keep up the schedule, congratulations; you have had a taste of life with a dog. If it is too much, think carefully. Maybe you either need a dog with less exercise requirements or might not quite be ready for a dog.
3. How much experience do you have with dogs? Certain dogs are easier to train than others. For example, Jack Russell terriers can be a bit challenging. They have so much energy and intelligence. You have to be extra patient sometimes.
4. Are you interested in the breed because of a book/movie/tv show? Are you more in love with what you see than the reality? Since we are being honest, I got a Dalmatian because I loved the looks and cute Disney characters; hey, I was young and an inexperienced dog companion.
I had no idea how high energy Dalmatians were. I had read they were active. They have not invented the proper adjective to describe how hyperactive they are. Perdy and I learned together, though. She finally calmed to normal dog speed when she was 10 and was still running two weeks prior to her death.
5. Are you financially able to care for your pet? You can do a little homework by calling a vet’s office. They can give you a rough idea of average costs for checkups and flea and heartworm medicines. Visit your local pet supply store for an idea about food costs. And, don’t forget to check with your landlord (if applicable). You may not be able to have a pet. If you can, an extra deposit may be required.
6. Do you have other pets in the household? Kids? You must consider everyone who lives with you. Imagine how you would feel if a strange person suddenly moved in with you. Lots of pets are surrendered to shelters because they were not compatible with everyone in the home.
I could go on and on. I think you get the idea, though. Pets require a huge investment of time and money. You will also give away a little piece of your heart and get so much more in return!
Rescue Mommy
If you are thinking about getting a new pet or adding another one to your family, you have a lot of things to consider. Here are a few things we always consider:
1. What is your lifestyle? If you are a couch potato, do not adopt a high energy dog. If you are the active type, you have plenty of like-minded breeds to consider.
2. How much time can you devote to your new pet? Dogs require walks outside to do their business, whereas cats can use a litter box. They want to hang out with you and play with toys; in my opinion, they want more interaction than most cats. A cat will approach you when he or she wants attention.
Tip if you are considering a dog: Set your alarm 30 minutes early and go for a walk each morning. Come straight home work and take a 30-minute walk. Do this for two weeks. If you can keep up the schedule, congratulations; you have had a taste of life with a dog. If it is too much, think carefully. Maybe you either need a dog with less exercise requirements or might not quite be ready for a dog.
3. How much experience do you have with dogs? Certain dogs are easier to train than others. For example, Jack Russell terriers can be a bit challenging. They have so much energy and intelligence. You have to be extra patient sometimes.
4. Are you interested in the breed because of a book/movie/tv show? Are you more in love with what you see than the reality? Since we are being honest, I got a Dalmatian because I loved the looks and cute Disney characters; hey, I was young and an inexperienced dog companion.
I had no idea how high energy Dalmatians were. I had read they were active. They have not invented the proper adjective to describe how hyperactive they are. Perdy and I learned together, though. She finally calmed to normal dog speed when she was 10 and was still running two weeks prior to her death.
5. Are you financially able to care for your pet? You can do a little homework by calling a vet’s office. They can give you a rough idea of average costs for checkups and flea and heartworm medicines. Visit your local pet supply store for an idea about food costs. And, don’t forget to check with your landlord (if applicable). You may not be able to have a pet. If you can, an extra deposit may be required.
6. Do you have other pets in the household? Kids? You must consider everyone who lives with you. Imagine how you would feel if a strange person suddenly moved in with you. Lots of pets are surrendered to shelters because they were not compatible with everyone in the home.
I could go on and on. I think you get the idea, though. Pets require a huge investment of time and money. You will also give away a little piece of your heart and get so much more in return!
Rescue Mommy
Monday, December 5, 2011
'Tis the Season
I heard an interesting story recently. As part of a little girl’s birthday party, she invited friends to her house. They made dog biscuits and delivered them to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue. They then played with the dogs and cats at the shelter.
At this time of year, it seems everyone becomes a little more charitable minded. Yes, we should think that way year round, but that is not the point of this post.
When you are thinking about charitable stuff to do this time of year, please do not forget our local rescue groups and shelters. The cool thing about helping them is it is usually one of the most affordable things you can do. Times are tough; it is hard to do as much as you would like to do for your favorite charity. Most groups have very reasonably-priced items like bleach or dog treats on their wish lists.
You can also give the gift of time. Dogs and cats would love to have you spend some time with them. The staff also could use some help with chores around the shelter too.
No matter what you decide to do, it will be appreciated. These organizations are usually underfunded and under staffed. They could use any help you can offer.
Rescue Mommy
At this time of year, it seems everyone becomes a little more charitable minded. Yes, we should think that way year round, but that is not the point of this post.
When you are thinking about charitable stuff to do this time of year, please do not forget our local rescue groups and shelters. The cool thing about helping them is it is usually one of the most affordable things you can do. Times are tough; it is hard to do as much as you would like to do for your favorite charity. Most groups have very reasonably-priced items like bleach or dog treats on their wish lists.
You can also give the gift of time. Dogs and cats would love to have you spend some time with them. The staff also could use some help with chores around the shelter too.
No matter what you decide to do, it will be appreciated. These organizations are usually underfunded and under staffed. They could use any help you can offer.
Rescue Mommy
Friday, December 2, 2011
Christmas Tree Safety Tips
Every day, I see more and more cars drive by with a Christmas tree strapped to the roof. The Christmas season is upon us!
I doubt we will put up a tree this year. (Don’t worry; we use an artificial tree.) The tree always becomes a favorite cat toy during the time it is up. One year, I found Maddy lying deep inside the lower section of the tree! Kiki likes to hide underneath the tree and pounce on anyone who walks by. Gracie is the target of choice.
In case you are planning to decorate for Christmas, I wanted to offer a few tips and tricks I use when trimming the tree:
• Leave the icicles outside. I am not sure if these are a big thing where you live, but they are quite common here in the South. They are little bits of silver mystery material that basically have intestinal distress written all over them. Kiki encountered them on my mother’s tree once and LOVED them. They certainly made for an interesting litter box cleaning that week.
• Sacrifice a few ornaments for the “kids.” I place a few non-breakable ornaments on the lower limbs. Let the furry kids play with them and place the nicer stuff higher on the tree.
• Fishing line can be your friend. One year, I decorated the tree with beautiful glass ornaments. I used fishing line to tie the ornaments to the tree. Yes, it took longer to decorate the tree and much longer to disassemble it later. Not a single ornament was broken, though.
• Speaking of fishing line, watch out for hooks. I found plastic ornament hooks and use them, instead of the old-fashioned metal kind. I figure plastic would do less damage to paws than metal would. I also wrap the hook several times around the limb. I do not want the cats (or dog) to eat any hook, plastic or metal.
• Hold your tree hostage. If you fear your buddies are going to pull down the tree, place a small hook in the wall. Tie the fishing line to the tree and through the hook. Sure, you will have a small hole in the wall to patch later. What’s worse? A little hole in the wall or a sound of the tree, crashing to the floor at 2:00 a.m.? And, yes, it would be at 2:00 a.m.; it always is!
Please post any suggestions you have for holiday safety too! Happy Holidays!
Rescue Mommy
I doubt we will put up a tree this year. (Don’t worry; we use an artificial tree.) The tree always becomes a favorite cat toy during the time it is up. One year, I found Maddy lying deep inside the lower section of the tree! Kiki likes to hide underneath the tree and pounce on anyone who walks by. Gracie is the target of choice.
In case you are planning to decorate for Christmas, I wanted to offer a few tips and tricks I use when trimming the tree:
• Leave the icicles outside. I am not sure if these are a big thing where you live, but they are quite common here in the South. They are little bits of silver mystery material that basically have intestinal distress written all over them. Kiki encountered them on my mother’s tree once and LOVED them. They certainly made for an interesting litter box cleaning that week.
• Sacrifice a few ornaments for the “kids.” I place a few non-breakable ornaments on the lower limbs. Let the furry kids play with them and place the nicer stuff higher on the tree.
• Fishing line can be your friend. One year, I decorated the tree with beautiful glass ornaments. I used fishing line to tie the ornaments to the tree. Yes, it took longer to decorate the tree and much longer to disassemble it later. Not a single ornament was broken, though.
• Speaking of fishing line, watch out for hooks. I found plastic ornament hooks and use them, instead of the old-fashioned metal kind. I figure plastic would do less damage to paws than metal would. I also wrap the hook several times around the limb. I do not want the cats (or dog) to eat any hook, plastic or metal.
• Hold your tree hostage. If you fear your buddies are going to pull down the tree, place a small hook in the wall. Tie the fishing line to the tree and through the hook. Sure, you will have a small hole in the wall to patch later. What’s worse? A little hole in the wall or a sound of the tree, crashing to the floor at 2:00 a.m.? And, yes, it would be at 2:00 a.m.; it always is!
Please post any suggestions you have for holiday safety too! Happy Holidays!
Rescue Mommy
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